The Extent of African Slavery: How Many Were Taken by Non-Europeans?

("The Iron Triangle Slave Trade") has a long and deeply troubling history that spans centuries and continents. This article delves into the role of non-Europeans in the African slave trade, providing a comprehensive overview based on historical records, estimates, and scholarly research.

The Non-European Involvement in the African Slave Trade

Contrary to popular belief, the non-European involvement in the African slave trade was significant. While Europeans initiated the slave trade in the late 18th century, they did not operate in isolation. African states and traders played a crucial role in the capture and sale of millions of Africans to European merchants and other non-European powers. This cooperation between European and non-European entities created a vast and complex network of slavery that stretched across the Atlantic and into South America and the Caribbean.

The Iron Triangle Slave Trade and Its Scope

The Iron Triangle Slave Trade ran from 1507 to 1866 and is estimated to have involved around 12.5 million African slaves. This trade route was characterized by a system where African states and merchants captured slaves and sold them to middlemen, who then transported them to European territories in the Americas. Given the high mortality rates during the capture and journey, it is presumed that many more were taken but perished during transit.

African Kingdoms and Slave Trade

Many African kingdoms and city-states participated actively in the slave trade. Notable examples include Dahomey, which was renowned for its cruel practices and mass kidnappings. Dahomey supplied a significant number of slaves to European traders, who in turn sold them to other non-European powers in South America. Other kingdoms, such as the Asante Empire, also played significant roles in the capture and sale of slaves.

European and Non-European Ports as Slave Trade Hubs

While European powers like Portugal, Spain, England, and France established major trading posts in Africa, many slaves were also purchased by non-European entities. Major ports such as Tanger, Tunis, Gorée, and Zanzibar served as key hubs for the transfer and sale of slaves. These ports functioned as intermediaries, connecting African states with European and non-European traders.

Estimates of Slave Numbers and Mortality Rates

Historical estimates suggest that between the 8th and 19th centuries, dozens of millions of African slaves were captured. However, the true number is likely much higher, given the high mortality rates during the capture and transportation process. It is estimated that around 50 million African slaves died during the capture and journey, never making it to the end of the trade route.

Impact and Legacy

The impact of the African slave trade was profound and far-reaching, affecting not only the lives of millions of Africans but also the social, economic, and political structures of both African and non-African societies. The legacy of this period continues to influence contemporary discussions on race, human rights, and global relations.

Conclusion

The African slave trade was a global phenomenon, involving the participation of both European and non-European entities. The non-European role in this trade was significant, contributing to the vast networks that transported millions of Africans from their homelands to the Americas and beyond. Understanding this complex history is essential for comprehending the lasting impacts of slavery and the ongoing struggles for justice and equality.